R.I.P. Windows XP, Hello Windows 8.1 Update 1

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It wouldn't be fair to say that we hardly knew thee. For my part, I skipped Windows Vista altogether, making the leap directly from Windows XP to Windows 7 a few years ago. Despite some of its quirks, Windows XP was a solid operating system, but we must finally bid adieu to our dear friend today.

Microsoft has officially ended support and updates for Windows XP as of today. That's after a solid 12 year run and I'm sure there are still quite a few computers out there, particularly within more stringent corporate or institutional environments, that still use Windows XP. However, as technical assistance and security patches are no longer being provided, it might not be so bright to hang on to Windows XP any longer. To that end, Microsoft recommends that you finally upgrade your PC.

That's why the timing for the Windows 8.1 Update 1 release is so timely, because you can go ahead and download the newest version of Microsoft's newest operating system today too. You'll get the new Start menu and such. The easiest way to go about getting the update is through the official Windows Update utility on your computer. Alternatively, if you prefer to grab the packaged files directly, you can grab the corresponding files via the Microsoft links here:

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Michael Kwan is freelance writer and professional gadget geek. He's been reporting on the world of technology for years, playing countless console games along the way too. Be sure to check out his personal blog, Beyond the Rhetoric, for posts on freelance writing, personal development, entertainment, video games, and more. Follow him on Twitter too: @michaelkwan